New York, Jun 21 (UNI) International Yoga Day, celebrated on Monday, aims to raise awareness of the mental, physical, and spiritual benefits of the practice which continues to gain popularity worldwide, with the UN stressing that yoga is especially helpful to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic stress.
The idea of declaring an International Day of Yoga at the UN was proposed by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address to the UN General Assembly in September 2014. Modi suggested that 21st June, the summer solstice, has special significance in many parts of the world and could be considered for adoption as the International Day of Yoga by the UN.
With its origins in India, yoga is gradually gaining popularity worldwide, with experts saying that their physical, mental, and spiritual discipline can help people lead a healthier lifestyle. This year, due to the pandemic, the majority of the events will be organized online.